Shelia Aldredge - June 2008 and January 2009
You absolutely met the goals in inspiring us all to think deeply and encouraged us to view leadership styles of the Greek gods compared to today's leadership. The seminar group was probably my most enjoyable experience because of the small intimate setting where we were encouraged to discuss our thoughts about a topic or something in one of the books we had read. I would encourage the District to sponsor The Principals Institute because it gives one the opportunity to think outside of the box, to collaborate with others about teaching and leading, and it promotes self-reflection and comparison. The Institute made me more conscious of my leadership style and efforts.
Constance Burton - June and December 2008
This Institute allowed me to think about leadership from a different perspective. I was able to think "outside of the box." I have always considered myself a life-long learner. I did not realize I could appreciate Greek mythology for what I would say my third experience in schooling with this topic. All of the readings, lecture series, seminars, journal writings, allowed me to engage with literature much the way that I would like the students in the school to receive rich, engaging experiences in order to get at deeper thinking "habits of the mind!"
Etinne Clerkley - December 2008
On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate it as a "10." The intellectual conversation and appreciation for
knowledge and insight was so overwhelmingly exciting. This one day has made such an impact
on how I think about and embrace the cost of leadership. I wish we had more valuable
opportunities like this.
Lisa Curry - June 2008 and January 2009
Wow! What an ingenious idea to use the classics to gain insight into leadership practices!
My colleagues and I debriefed on our cell phones each evening (on our way home). We
talked about how our thinking was expanded and how we enjoyed the intellectual
discourse around the themes presented. We also talked about how to incorporate a similar
learning format for our teachers this fall. Thanks again for allowing me the chance to make
several "paradigm shifts" as I plan to create learning situations that will ensure teachers
and students reach their full potential.
Dr. Lucy K. Hakemack - June and December 2008
Attending the Principals Institute has been a highlight of my school year. I felt like a young college student who now has the maturity and maybe even wisdom to appreciate the art of literature and poetry. Not only to understand it, but to be able to compare it to my own position as the leader of my campus. I was able to learn and grow along with my fellow principals and to listen to their words of wisdom. It truly was a great experience!
Mary Lou Martinez - June and December 2008
This Institute has re-awakened my love for the leader ("principalship") in education. By taking a deeper look into the classics we see our role as administrator as timeless and fulfilling.
Dr. Silvia Martinez - December 2008
10 plus stars!!! What an enjoyable day and excellent learning experience! ‘Great depth and
breadth of learning as well as opportunity for reflection and future appreciation of the learning.
I'm still grasping!
Jennifer Parvin - June and December 2008
The experience has been transformative, as it often is when one engages in authentic learning. Entering into a world of imagination to consider the leader in relation to the community is exactly the sort of vision that we need to understand as we go about our work of teaching and learning.
Dr. Anne Vincent - June 2008
The transformation in which the district is currently involved requires many changes in understanding what education is, what learning is, and what the role of the school is. In fact, it (transformation) truly necessitates a change of heart on the part of principals and teachers. This has been that kind of experience. I encourage you to encourage district, school board, area learning community retreats. Thanks again.
For information about Principals Institute programs, contact Dr. Claudia Allums at 214-981-8813 or callums@dallasinstitute.org.